Add parallel Print Page Options

21 
The wise in heart will be called understanding,
And sweet speech increases persuasiveness and learning [in both speaker and listener].
22 
Understanding (spiritual insight) is a [refreshing and boundless] wellspring of life to those who have it,
But to give instruction and correction to fools is foolishness.
23 
The heart of the wise instructs his mouth [in wisdom]
And adds persuasiveness to his lips.

Read full chapter

21 The wise in heart are called discerning,
    and gracious words promote instruction.[a](A)

22 Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,(B)
    but folly brings punishment to fools.

23 The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,(C)
    and their lips promote instruction.[b](D)

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Proverbs 16:21 Or words make a person persuasive
  2. Proverbs 16:23 Or prudent / and make their lips persuasive